Reflecting on "What Feelings Do When No One’s Looking": A Colourful Investigation into Emotions
When I first stumbled upon What Feelings Do When No One’s Looking by Marta Altés, I was instantly intrigued. The title alone sparked memories of those moments when we feel something profound and yet struggle to articulate it. I was curious—what do feelings actually do when we think no one’s watching? The concept of personifying feelings and abstract emotions promised both a whimsical journey and an insightful discussion. However, the read left me with slightly mixed feelings, and I can’t help but share my thoughts.
At its core, this picture book dives into what emotions do when they’re off the stage, free from our scrutinizing gaze. Each page unveils a little nugget of wisdom or whimsy, such as “Anger Explodes” or “Pride sits tall in a tower at the summit of a crystal mountain.” The brilliance lies in how Altés tackled not just feelings but also abstract concepts like curiosity and hospitality, allowing readers of all ages a moment of emotional connection.
However, I found the execution to be a bit surreal for a target audience of 3-7 years. While some lines exhibit pure brilliance, others veer into the bizarre. The quirkiness that could spark imaginative conversations about feelings might be a tad complex for younger minds to wrap around fully. It’s almost as if the book gleefully dances in a whimsical realm that adults can appreciate but might leave kids scratching their heads, which is a bit of a quandary.
The illustrations complement the narrative, though here, too, my reactions were mixed. While the creatures representing emotions are undeniably cute, the color palette leans towards the dull, lacking the vibrancy that often captivates a child’s eye. In a world where a kaleidoscope of colors often enhances engagement, I found myself wishing for brighter hues to bring these charming emotions to life.
Despite my criticisms, the book does have merits; it holds the potential to act as a wonderful conversation starter between children and adults. It might work well in an educational setting, igniting discussions in classrooms or nurturing deeper talks at home about the multifaceted world of feelings. It’s also reassuring to know that while it will likely resonate more with adults, it can provide children with a guide on emotional expression, something we can all relate to.
In closing, What Feelings Do When No One’s Looking is a unique creation that deserves to be explored, even if my expectations leaned higher than the outcome. This book may resonate particularly with parents, educators, or those seeking to dive into the abstract world of emotions with younger children. I can see it being a tool for fostering connections, albeit one that may not have universal appeal for its intended age group.
So, while I’m personally giving it a solid 3.5 stars, I recognize that my opinion may be in the minority. I encourage you to check out diverse reviews and see for yourself—the joys of reading often manifest in unexpected ways!
My thanks to Archipelago, Elsewhere Editions, and NetGalley for providing a DRC of this intriguing book. This reflection comes from my genuine experience, and I hope it inspires you to seek out your own emotional adventures through literature!
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